The Company
Healthcare Ireland Group is Northern Ireland’s leading independent provider of residential, nursing and specialist care. We are continuing to grow and are now seeking an experienced Head of Safety and Estates person to join our team.
The Role
The Head of Safety and Estates is a senior leadership role, legally accountable for Health & Safety across the Healthcare Ireland Group and responsible for leading estates strategy, compliance, and operational health and safety. In addition to the Healthcare Ireland portfolio, this role will also work closely with the Contracts Manager for Aspen Ireland.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the postholder will provide assurance that all Homes and sites remain safe, compliant, and not only fit‑for‑purpose, but industry leading – while also leading a culture of continuous improvement in resident safety and wellbeing.
This role combines the professional responsibility of a qualified Health & Safety leader with the operational oversight of estates and facilities management. Working through the Estates Management and local maintenance teams, the postholder will ensure that statutory, regulatory, and best practice standards are achieved consistently across all Homes.
Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Act as the organisation’s responsible person for Health & Safety, providing expert advice and assurance to the Directors and Senior Leadership Team.
* Develop and deliver an integrated Health & Safety and Estates strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
* Chair Health & Safety and Estates/Facilities committees, reporting to the Board and demonstrating compliance, performance, and risk management.
* Support business growth and development by leading on property, estate planning, and capital investment strategies.
Health & Safety Governance
Represent Health and Safety and Estates management as a member of the Healthcare Ireland Care and Clinical Governance Committee.
* Lead and promote a culture of safety across all Homes, ensuring compliance with RQIA, Trust standards, HSE regulations, and statutory requirements.
* Oversee the reporting and investigation of serious incidents (including RIDDOR) and ensure learning and improvements are embedded.
* Maintain and manage the organisation’s risk register for estates, facilities, and Health & Safety.
* Develop and implement robust policies, procedures, and training programmes to support compliance and best practice.
* Continuously review and provide direction and leadership to the design and content of Care Home estates regulatory checks and outcomes.
* Ensure infection prevention and control standards are embedded in estates and facilities operations.
Estates & Facilities Management
* Lead the estates function through the Estates/Maintenance Manager and platform, providing oversight of maintenance operations across all Homes.
* Work closely with Home and Regional Managers to ensure regulatory compliance.
* Ensure planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedules are in place and delivered, minimising disruption to resident care.
* Manage estates‑related compliance including fire safety, Legionella, lifts, medical gases, electrical systems, waste, and environmental requirements.
* Conduct regular site inspections and audits to ensure high standards of safety, quality, and compliance.
* Maintain and develop the organisation’s property database and estates information systems.
Capital Planning & Projects
* Support the MD in delivering the capital investment programme, from minor works to major multi‑million‑pound projects alongside the Contracts Manager for Aspen Ireland and external contractors.
* Lead on estate condition surveys to inform investment priorities and maintenance plans.
* Support with negotiations and agreements for land, property, leases, and waste licences.
* Ensure procurement and financial management processes are robust, transparent, and within budget.
Team Leadership & Development
* Line‑manage and develop the Estates/Maintenance team, setting clear objectives and supporting professional growth.
* Provide guidance and support to maintenance teams and contractors to ensure safe, efficient, and high‑quality delivery.
* Promote a collaborative and accountable team culture across Health & Safety and Estates functions.
About You
Person Specification
Qualifications (Essential)
* Degree or Master’s level qualification in Health & Safety, Estates/Facilities, Engineering, or related field.
* NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) with Chartered/Graduate IOSH membership.
* Evidence of continued professional development in Health & Safety and Estates.
Desirable
* Chartered status in Engineering, Property, or Facilities discipline.
* Level 4 Diploma in Fire Risk Assessment.
Experience (Essential)
* Proven track record of leading Health & Safety and Estates/Facilities in a complex, multi‑site environment (healthcare preferred).
* Dignostable legal accountability and governance experience in Health & Safety.
* Experience managing capital projects, estates compliance, and facilities operations.
* Strong background in budget management, procurement, and contract management.
* Experience of leading and developing teams, with a track record of service improvement and change management.
Skills & Competencies
* Strong leadership and influencing skills, with the ability to work across all levels of the organisation.
* Excellent knowledge of Health & Safety law, estates compliance, and regulatory frameworks.
* Skilled in project and risk management, with the ability to deliver results under pressure.
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and reporting skills.
* High levels of integrity, resilience, and a commitment to resident safety and wellbeing.
Equal Opportunities Employer
Healthcare Ireland are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.
Benefits
* Retirement plan and/or pension
* Employee development programmes
* Free parking
* Competitive salary
* Social opportunities
* Employee Recognition Scheme
Salary
£55,000.00 per year
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